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May 7, 2010

When Dee Markel was diagnosed with breast cancer, her daughter was only 5 years old. The moment Markel received her prognosis, she made a commitment to survive this disease and see her daughter grow up, reports the Middletown Journal.

Her determination to thrive despite her cancer, and her faith, seem to have helped Markel through the difficult time.

"My daughter was five at the time, and I said, 'Oh gosh, I've got to beat this because I want to see her grow up and get married,'" Markle told the news source. "When I had breast cancer, I most remember talking to my minister and it was really all the prayers that helped."

The survivor has now been cancer free for over 20 years, and in that time has devoted her life to giving back and helping others. She has spent time as a graduate counselor, helped adults get their GED, and taught kindergarten since overcoming her illness.

When she's not teaching she is actively involved with her local American Cancer Society board where she is a member. Every year for the past 16 years she has organized and participated in the American Cancer Society (ACS's) Relay for Life fundraiser.

According to the ACS, there were an estimated 193,000 new cases of breast cancer in 2009.

There are countless resources for those currently suffering from breast cancer as well as those who have survived the disease. The National Cancer Institute estimates that about 40,000 died of the disease in 2009.

Early detection offers the best prognosis, so it is recommended that women 40 and older have an annual mammogram. Experts also suggest women over 20 conduct a monthly breast self-examination.

Other preventive methods recommended are eating a low-fat diet, engaging in physical exercise and refraining from smoking.

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